Port Augusta offers bright solar future for South Australia

Reports that US solar thermal giant SolarReserve has made a bid to build Australia’s first-ever solar thermal plant with storage in Port Augusta is a fantastic step towards the national goal of at least 50% renewable energy by 2030, according to Solar Citizens.

Solar Citizens National Director Claire O’Rourke said the project is an exciting example of the enormous potential of solar power in Australia, and is a testament to the local community’s long-running campaign for renewable energy.

“This is an incredible opportunity for South Australia to build Australia’s first-ever solar thermal plant with storage,” she said.

“The community driven push to power Port Augusta with solar thermal will see South Australia set the lead for the rest of the country and will generate jobs and economic benefits for the state.

“More than 188,000 households have installed solar power so far in SA. South Australians love solar power and they want more renewables and solar in their energy mix.

“The bid by American company SolarReserve demonstrates the enormous investment potential of solar and renewables in this country.

“It is important that both State and Federal Governments make sure they adopt policies that encourage further investment in renewables, and the jobs this will create.

“It is vital that the Federal Government commit to a goal of at least 50% renewable energy by 2030 in order to encourage further investment, innovation and diversity in our energy sector,” said Ms O’Rourke.